frantic attempt to swing round, dashed himself against the wall, and landed Steve upon the floor. Then it was impossible to restrain her laughter any longer; and she walked in upon them, saying merrily,—
"It was splendid! Do it again, and I'll play for you."
Steve sprung up, and tore off the table-cloth in great confusion; while Mac, still rubbing his head, dropped into a chair, trying to look quite calm and cheerful as he gasped out,—
"How are you, cousin? When did you come? John should have told us."
"I'm glad he didn't, for then I should have missed this touching tableau of cousinly devotion and brotherly love. Getting ready for our next party, I see."
"Trying to; but there are so many things to remember all at once,—keep time, steer straight, dodge the petticoats, and manage my confounded legs,—that it isn't easy to get on at first," answered Mac, wiping his hot forehead, with a sigh of exhaustion.
"Hardest job I ever undertook; and, as I'm not a battering-ram, I decline to be knocked round any longer," growled Steve, dusting his knees, and ruefully surveying the feet that had been trampled on till they tingled; for his boots and broadcloth were dear to the heart of the dapper youth.
"Very good of you, and I'm much obliged. I've got the pace, I think, and can practise with a chair to
